Friday 30-09-2022 - 09:01

Trigger warning: This article contains frequent reference to rape and sexual abuse. 

 

Words like sexual abuse or rape are enough to make us shudder. We want every student who reads this to feel they can speak up or support someone else if this happens, or has happened. Many of us think we don’t know anyone who has had it happen to them, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The harsh reality is one in four women and one in 20 men have been raped or sexually abused. 

 

Sexual abuse can happen anywhere, to anyone. According to the National Union of Students (NUS), 75% of students have had an unwanted sexual experience at least once, while 28% had been pressured into establishing an unwanted sexual relationship. One third of these took place on a campus. 

 

When we hear of this type of thing happening, often we focus on the victim. What could they have done differently? What could we do to stop this from happening to us? But the truth is it’s not about what we do or don’t do. 

 

We need to change our attitudes towards abuse, and reconsider how we support survivors. 

 

There are countless common misconceptions about rape and abuse. Many people think the women victims of sexual abuse are flitatious or wear short skirts, but that’s simply not the case. Rape is about power more than any sexual desire. Sexual abuse is also much more likely to occur closer to home, with five in six rapes against women being carried out by people they know.

 

The only cause of abuse is the abuser. Tackling abuse begins with the offenders. 

 

So, what can we do to support survivors? 

 

How a survivor copes in the aftermath of what they have been through is often shaped by our responses. When we question their actions, we reinforce the shame and guilt the survivor is already subjecting themselves to. 

 

Don’t put the blame on the survivor. One of the easiest things you can do to support a survivor is say: “It’s not your fault”. Comfort the survivor, and believe what they tell you. It takes a lot of courage to come forward, so commend always commend their bravery. 

 

If you or anyone you know has experienced sexual abuse, there are some resources below which can support you.

Edge Hill University provides guidance on what to do if you recently or historically experienced sexual assault. To report an assault, visit the EHU website.

Edge Hill Students’ Union Advice Team is completely independent from the university and can provide guidance and support as you navigate your way through reporting sexual assault. Our advisors are friendly and non-judgmental, always putting your best interests at the core of their service. 

The Survivors Society is also a safe space for survivors of rape, sexual and domestic abuse. The society aims to signpost people to relevant wellbeing resources both in the local area and on campus and to participate in campaigns and raise awareness of charities and groups who do amazing work. You can join the society via the EHSU website. 

In the event of an emergency, campus security is available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Dial 01695 654227 to contact a member of the team.

 

This article was contributed by Health, Social Care & Medicine President Doreen Morrin.